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Q:

The other day I had sex without protection. The guy told me he had recently been tested for STDs, STIs and bacteria. I didn’t think about it at the time, but it sounds like a lie because it seems a little excessive.

Regardless of what he said, I think I should probably get tested. I’m not going to be at WWU this fall, so I am not sure what to do since the SHC would normally be where I’d go. I am not even sure what I would want to get tested for. Where could I go that would offer these services for reasonably cheap (other than Planned Parenthood)?

I am also a little concerned that I could be pregnant. What are some of the early signs? Should I just go ahead and get an OTC test?

A:

It sounds as if there is a bit to be worried about in this sexual encounter.

Pregnancy testing with over the counter tests would be accurate as early as 10 days after unprotected intercourse but may not detect pregnancy until after your missed period.

Sexually transmitted infection testing is a good idea, recognizing that no test is 100% sensitive and accurate, so a sexual partner saying he's been tested for everything is simply not possible. It isn't possible to test males for Human Papilloma Virus (genital warts) and few people have been tested for Hepatitis B and C which can be transmitted sexually. Testing for HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhea, as well as syphilis is common, but the tests can be false negative.

You should be seen for testing as soon as possible, and Planned Parenthood is the most affordable place in Bellingham to be seen for this.